What is the role of platelet transfusion in cases of thrombocytopenia?
In most cases of DHF/DSS IV fluids / plasma expanders are adequate. However blood transfusion is indicated when haematocrit falls due to severe bleeding ( refractory shock) and not due to fluid therapy. Fresh whole blood is preferable and volume administered should be just adequate to raise the RBC concentration to normal. Fresh frozen plasma and / or concentrated platelets may be indicated in a few cases when disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) causes massive bleeding.
